Lee Zeldin, Trump's nominee to lead the Environmental Protection Agency, is set to undergo his Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday. Lawmakers are expected to scrutinize his environmental record, particularly his stance on climate-resilient legislation during his tenure as a former congressman.
Zeldin, who represented New York's 1st congressional district from 2015 to 2023, received a low 14% lifetime environmental voting score from the League of Conservation Voters. The group highlighted his opposition to clean energy infrastructure investments, as well as legislation related to clean air and water protections.
The confirmation hearing occurs amidst Trump's pledge to boost U.S. oil and gas production in his potential second term. This includes plans to expand fracking, resume U.S. LNG exports, and reverse what he perceives as detrimental policies implemented by the Biden administration.
Trump has commended Zeldin's congressional track record, lauding him as a champion of 'America First' policies and emphasizing his robust legal expertise.
Zeldin's testimony is currently ongoing as he faces questions from senators regarding his environmental views and his potential approach to leading the EPA.
